Best Campgrounds near Boulevard, CA

Boulevard, California serves as a gateway to diverse camping experiences in eastern San Diego County, with options ranging from primitive sites to full-service RV parks. The area includes the Boulevard/Cleveland National Forest KOA Holiday campground with 150 sites offering amenities for tent campers, RV users, and cabin stays. Lake Morena County Park, approximately 10 miles northwest of Boulevard, provides boat-in access, cabins, and glamping opportunities alongside traditional camping areas. Several campgrounds in the Cleveland National Forest, including Burnt Rancheria and Cibbets Flat, offer a more rustic experience with varying levels of amenities and seasonal availability.

Access to camping areas near Boulevard varies significantly with elevation and season. Many campgrounds in the Laguna Mountains operate seasonally, with Burnt Rancheria typically open from May through October. The region experiences dramatic temperature variations, with mountain areas providing relief from summer desert heat while requiring preparation for potential winter snow. Primitive camping in nearby Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers year-round options but demands careful planning for extreme heat conditions. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region, particularly in canyon areas and remote desert locations. A visitor commented, "The Trail is a 7.5 mile out and back trail near Morena Village. There are great views over the Lake Morena area and the desert as you climb. At 4,657 feet, it is a continuous climb, so don't forget to take plenty of water!"

Campers report high satisfaction with the region's diverse landscapes, from pine-covered mountains to expansive desert vistas. The mixed-use campgrounds in the area accommodate various outdoor activities, with many sites providing access to hiking trails, including segments of the Pacific Crest Trail. Lake Morena County Park receives positive reviews for its combination of water recreation and camping facilities. A review noted, "Lake Morena is an awesome place to stay. This was our first campsite during our PCT thru hike, approximately 20 miles from the Mexico border via the trail." Developed campgrounds like Burnt Rancheria offer amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, while more remote areas provide solitude and stargazing opportunities. The region's proximity to both mountain and desert environments creates unique camping experiences within relatively short driving distances.

Best Camping Sites Near Boulevard, California (139)

    1. Burnt Rancheria Campground

    23 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 473-0120

    $35 / night

    "I love this campground because it's woodsy and close to home.  You get that far away feel without being too far away. "

    "We had hosts that were helpful, friendly, the restrooms were stocked/clean, they brought firewood around, and were just good people."

    2. Lake Morena County Park

    15 Reviews
    Campo, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 565-3600

    $24 - $34 / night

    "Lake Morena is an awesome place to stay. This was our first campsite during our PCT thru hike, approximately 20 miles from the Mexico border via the trail."

    "The campground at Lake Morena has around 80+ spots that range from hookups for RV to basic tent camping. There's a indoor entertainment room and multiple bathrooms."

    3. El Prado Campground

    22 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 473-2082

    $35 / night

    "This is the closest campground to the lakes. Just a couple steps away from the beautiful meadow it overlooks. Lots of trees for hammocking!!"

    "It is a big, big campground that is wooded and adjacent a large meadow, recreational area and lake (when not dried out, drought sucks)."

    4. BOULEVARD / CLEVELAND NATIONAL FOREST KOA HOLIDAY

    4 Reviews
    Boulevard, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 766-4480

    $75 - $85 / night

    "It’s off the beaten path of I-8. To get here you take some very windy roads, bigger rigs will take up most the road. Almost all sites are back-in with little site definition."

    "It’s a bit off the beaten path, but it’s a beautiful part of San Diego county.

    Amenities include a mini petting Zoo and things like a hayride in warmer weather."

    5. Agua Caliente County Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 765-1188

    $29 - $75 / night

    "A lot of RVs are in the center and seem set up as full-timers, but along the perimeter are some great, tucked-away sites.  There are also a number of "cabins" in a row. "

    "Waking up to a gathering of big horn sheep atop a ridge with a bright colorful sunrise set behind as backdrop as they stand there stoic against it all, was by far one my favorite ways to wake up ever!"

    6. Cibbets Flat Campground

    6 Reviews
    Pine Valley, CA
    12 miles
    Website

    "Such a great little campground tuck away from the rest. First coke first serve basis. Pit toilet (extremely clean). Running water. Plenty of huge shaded sites. Awesome night sky viewing as well."

    "Awesome campsite with a cute little river tucked away. There was plenty of flat ground for our tent and Jeep. It was a really nice spot to spend the whole day at as well."

    7. San Diego County Lake Morena County Park

    8 Reviews
    Campo, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 579-4101

    $24 / night

    " The Lake Morena campground is well-kept and relaxing. It has a variety of sites including full-hookup, partial hookup, and tent only."

    "The views of the lakes and mountains are breathtaking. Lots of wildlife to see. Bobcats, deer, quail, rabbits and wild turkeys. Good internet if on Verizon network"

    8. Bow Willow Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    5 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 767-5311

    "We set up quickly and enjoyed ourselves a walk around the site. Not too many trailheads around and it was very hot and dry but we enjoyed it."

    9. KOA Boulevard

    1 Review
    Boulevard, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 766-4480

    $45 - $110 / night

    10. Boulder Oaks Eqst

    4 Reviews
    Campo, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (619) 445-6235

    $20 - $50 / night

    "Found this spot after being turned away from lake Moreno campgrounds. Plenty of room for our trailer and enough space between sites to feel like we were alone out here."

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Showing results 1-10 of 139 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Boulevard, CA

762 Reviews of 139 Boulevard Campgrounds



Guide to Boulevard

Camping near Boulevard, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails around the area. One camper mentioned, "The hiking trails were great for exploring and getting some exercise" at William Heise County Park.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing in well-stocked creeks. A visitor at Blair Valley Primitive Campground shared, "We also enjoyed fishing in the creek, which was well-stocked with trout and bluegill."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A reviewer noted, "Saw some coyotes pass by my camp" while staying at Blair Valley Primitive Campground.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One family at Paso Picacho Campground said, "The bathrooms were super clean especially during a holiday weekend."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the roomy campsites. A visitor at Lake Morena County Park mentioned, "Great, huge shade tree!!! Level."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. A reviewer at Agua Caliente County Park Campground said, "Friendly rangers. Clean facilities and well-kept grounds."

What you should know:

  • Wildlife Precautions: Be aware of local wildlife. A camper at William Heise County Park warned, "The ranger informed us they have ticks as mule deer are in the area."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A visitor at Blair Valley Primitive Campground noted, "NO drinking water, NO electric hookups."
  • Seasonal Access: Check the season for specific campgrounds. For example, Burnt Rancheria Campground is open from May 10 to October 27.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby trails and open spaces. A family at Green Valley Campground enjoyed, "The terrain of the campground is ideal for kids. Trees, hills, and large rocks for the kids to climb on."
  • Privacy Considerations: Choose campsites that offer some privacy. A camper at Lake Morena County Park suggested, "You can strategically choose a campsite on an end/corner for more privacy."
  • Plan for Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A visitor at Agua Caliente County Park Campground mentioned, "It still got below freezing in late May, so be prepared for colder temperatures."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A camper at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park noted, "A more experienced human might not have struggled as much but it be hard to get a 20 ft plus trailer into this particular site."
  • Water and Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Lake Morena County Park appreciated the "water and electric hookups."
  • Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours to ensure a peaceful stay. A visitor at Pio Pico RV Resort mentioned, "Music must be off by 10, and there is a ranger who comes around to make sure of it."

Camping near Boulevard, California, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Boulevard, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Boulevard, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 139 campgrounds and RV parks near Boulevard, CA and 23 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Boulevard, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Boulevard, CA is Burnt Rancheria Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 23 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Boulevard, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 free dispersed camping spots near Boulevard, CA.